By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
A domestic worker is fighting for her life after being shot in the leg with her employer’s firearm, an incident that has sent shockwaves through the Kariba community and raised serious concerns about workplace safety and accountability.
The victim, Lilian Zanga (33), was reportedly making her employer’s bed at Baobabridge on Tuesday morning when a pistol, allegedly hidden under the mattress, discharged unexpectedly.
The bullet tore through her right foot, causing severe bone damage and leaving a gaping wound.
Her husband, Tapiwa Ponde, recounted the terrifying ordeal, questioning the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
“My wife told me the gun was under the mattress and went off as she made the bed,” Ponde said. “But why was the gun there in the first place? My wife’s employer usually carries it with her.”
Suspicion and Accusations
Ponde’s doubts deepened when he observed his wife’s employer, Charlene Geddes, attempting to have a private conversation with Zanga at the hospital, a request his wife firmly refused.
In a further twist, Geddes reportedly accused Zanga of stealing household items, demanding $300 in restitution—a claim Ponde believes is a diversion from the shooting incident.
“The timing of this accusation is highly suspicious,” Ponde stated. “It feels like an attempt to shift attention away from the real issue.”
Medical Concerns and Investigation
Initially, doctors described Zanga’s injuries as minor, but later decided to induce labor to assess the extent of the damage and determine if surgery was necessary. Ponde has since expressed concerns about the urgency of this decision, fearing undisclosed complications.
Zanga is currently receiving treatment at Clinicare Medical Centre. Meanwhile, Mashonaland West police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Ian Kohwera, confirmed that an investigation is underway but declined to provide further details.
Efforts to obtain a comment from Geddes have been unsuccessful, as she has not responded to calls or WhatsApp messages.
Community Demands Justice
The shooting has not only raised questions about gun safety and employer responsibility but has also underscored the vulnerabilities faced by domestic workers. As the community awaits answers, the call for justice grows louder.
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